Creating a Fun Potty Training Routine That Kids Love

27 November 2025

Potty training — the phrase alone can make most parents break into a cold sweat. It's one of those parenting milestones that sounds way more glamorous in theory than in practice. Let’s be honest, nothing about coaxing a toddler to sit on a potty (and actually use it) screams fun, right?

Well, what if I told you it doesn’t have to be all frustration and mess? With a little creativity, a pinch of patience, and a healthy dose of fun, potty training can actually become something your child looks forward to — yes, really. So roll up your sleeves (and probably keep some wipes handy), because we’re diving into how to create a fun potty training routine that kids genuinely love.

Why Make Potty Training Fun?

Before we get into the how, let’s talk about the why.

Toddlers are tiny humans with big feelings and zero chill. If they sense pressure, they push back. That’s why making potty training fun isn’t just about adding glitter and songs — it’s about reducing stress, building confidence, and turning a stressful task into an exciting daily adventure.

Think of it like this: if you had to suddenly change your daily routine without really understanding why, wouldn’t it help if someone made it light-hearted and predictable?

Exactly.

Step 1: Set the Stage (Literally)

Kids respond to their environment — and let’s face it, bathrooms aren’t exactly the most thrilling places. But a few tweaks can make a world of difference.

🎨 Create a Potty-Friendly Space

- Decorate the bathroom: Involve your child in choosing a fun potty seat (bonus points if it matches a favorite character!). Add bright towels, fun artwork, or even little stickers on the wall — anything that personalizes the space just for them.
- Include engaging books and toys: Keep a basket of bath-safe books or potty-themed stories near the toilet. Maybe even a special “potty-only” stuffed animal who keeps them company!
- Use visuals: A picture chart that shows each step of the process — from pulling down pants to washing hands — helps your child gain independence and confidence.

This turns the bathroom from a “no-no” place into a “yay” destination.

Step 2: Build a Predictable Routine

Let’s talk routine. You know how kids will watch the same cartoon 37 times and still think it's hilarious? That’s because repetition gives them comfort.

🔁 Make Potty Time Part of the Day

- Use signals they already know — like after meals, before naps or before leaving the house.
- Set reminders — but keep them gentle. A kitchen timer or a catchy jingle can work wonders. “When the bell goes ding, it’s time to try the potty thing!”
- Be consistent — Even if they don’t go every time, the act of trying becomes part of the rhythm of the day.

This structure gives your child a sense of control — and helps prevent those “oops” moments.

Step 3: Introduce a Potty-Time Song or Dance

Music can transform even the most mundane task into a jam session. Case in point: the potty song.

🎶 Create a Potty Anthem

Make up a silly potty song — it doesn’t have to rhyme or even make much sense. Think of it as the toddler version of a victory chant.

Here’s a simple one to get you going:

> “Potty time is fun and cool,
> I use it like a big kid in school!
> Flush and wash, hooray for me,
> I'm as proud as proud can be!”

Bonus: Add a potty dance. A few stomps, a spin, maybe a wiggle or two — now it’s a party.

Your child will start associating potty time with giggles instead of groans.

Step 4: Get Props Involved

Let’s talk rewards. Not bribes (we’re not negotiating with mini dictators), but positive reinforcement tools that make your child feel proud of their progress.

🎁 Use a Sticker Chart

Make a colorful chart where your child can proudly put a sticker every time they try — and an extra one for success. Fill a row? That means a special prize, like choosing tonight’s bedtime story or a dance party with mom and dad.

💬 Praise Like a Pro

Keep your words positive, even when accidents happen. Focus on effort, not just results.

“I saw you tried so hard to get to the potty — great job!” goes a lot further than “Why didn’t you make it this time?”

This builds a growth mindset from day one.

Step 5: Role Play and Potty-Train Their Toys

Imaginative play is your secret weapon. If your kiddo is hesitant about potty training, turn the tables: let them be the expert.

🧸 Potty Time for Ted the Teddy

Get a mini potty for your child’s favorite toy. Let them “teach” the toy how to go potty, wipe, flush, and wash hands.

Kids LOVE being the boss. And when they see their toy succeed, they start internalizing that confidence.

This method is sneaky-effective for building empathy and reducing potty anxiety.

Step 6: Read Potty-Themed Books Together

Books are non-threatening, familiar, and great conversation starters. There are tons of adorable books out there that walk through potty training in toddler-friendly language.

Some popular picks include:

- Potty by Leslie Patricelli
- Everyone Poops by Taro Gomi
- Big Girl Panties and Big Boy Underpants by Fran Manushkin

Read them during cuddles, before bed, or (naturally) during potty time to keep the message consistent and comfortable.

Step 7: Celebrate Small Wins

Progress isn’t always linear. One day they’re dry all day, and the next? Surprise waterfall in aisle 5. That’s okay.

🎉 Make a Big Deal Out of the Little Wins

- First time sitting on the potty? High fives all around.
- Wore big kid undies today? Time for a happy dance.
- Told you before going? That’s superhero status!

Every milestone builds momentum. The more celebrated potty time feels, the more motivated your child becomes.

Step 8: Keep a Sense of Humor

Let’s be real. There will be messes, tantrums, and those awkward moments in public bathrooms. The key? Laugh it off.

Instead of turning every mishap into a meltdown, take a deep breath and say, “Oops! That’s okay! Even superheroes miss sometimes.”

Kids respond to your reaction. When you stay lighthearted, it helps them bounce back faster — and avoid shame.

Step 9: Involve Siblings and Family Members

If your toddler has older siblings, let them get in on the fun. Kids love copying their older brothers and sisters.

Have them cheer your little one on or sing the potty song together. It creates a supportive vibe — and gives you a few minutes to enjoy your coffee instead of playing bathroom DJ (again).

Even grandparents can join the praise parade. Send them a potty update video and have them send back some celebratory claps!

Step 10: Be Patient — Every Kid's Timeline is Different

This one's not fun, but it's 100% true: potty training takes time.

Even the most playful routine won't instantly click for every child. Some kids train in a weekend, others in months. And guess what? That’s completely normal.

So don’t compare your child’s progress with your neighbor’s or your cousin’s Facebook post.

Stay consistent, keep things positive, and meet your kid where they are.

Bonus Tips for Busy Parents

- Travel potty: Always have a portable potty in your car or stroller bag. Accidents don’t care if you're at the park.
- Potty watch: Get a wearable potty watch that reminds your child when it’s time to go — they’ll love being in charge.
- Let them pick their undies: From dinosaurs to glitter unicorns, fun underwear is a huge motivator.

Final Thoughts

Potty training doesn’t have to be a battleground. With a little creativity, a sprinkle of humor, and a whole lot of empathy, you can build a fun potty training routine that feels more like playtime than power struggle.

Remember, you're not just teaching a new skill — you're helping your child feel proud, independent, and capable.

So throw on that potty theme song, grab the sticker chart, and get ready to party... I mean, potty!

You’ve got this.